Iqaluit Launches Elder Mobility Van Service for Local Residents

A new mobility van service designed for elders and individuals with mobility challenges is set to commence operations in Iqaluit on Friday. This “soft launch” follows a year of preparations since the arrival of the van, with plans for it to operate on Fridays and Mondays until the end of the month, aligning with regular programming at the Elders Qammaq. On weekends, the service will provide free rides from 10:00 to 16:00.

The van is operated by Arctic Training Ltd., which aims to facilitate access to essential services for elders, including medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social visits. Paul Dainton, president of Arctic Training, emphasized the importance of a “safe, reliable, and dignified transportation system” at the service’s announcement event held over the weekend.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy announced by Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok last year, which included the purchase of elder mobility vans for five communities in Nunavut: Iqaluit, Cambridge Bay, Coral Harbour, Pangnirtung, and Rankin Inlet. While the announcement indicated partnerships with Arctic Training, Northern Future Skills Development, and Caribou Cabs for operations and training, it did not provide funding for ongoing service.

The absence of operational funding led to significant controversy within the legislature, prompting repeated inquiries from Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) regarding the delayed launch of the vans. The Iqaluit service, launching this week, is being self-funded by the operators at a cost of $10,000, according to Dainton. Currently, the other four mobility vans in the territory remain inactive.

“The vehicles were purchased last fiscal year with good intentions, but unfortunately, the second phase of our proposal—securing full funding—was not achieved,” Dainton stated. He noted that Arctic Training, Northern Future Skills, and Caribou Cabs are covering operational costs to mobilize the service and re-establish community interest after a year of uncertainty.

The launch event attracted local political figures, including Iqaluit MLA candidates David Akeeagok, George Hickes, and Gwen Healy Akearok. Following the territorial elections, Dainton expressed hopes for securing multi-year funding to ensure that all five vehicles can operate as a free service for passengers.

Residents of Iqaluit keen to utilize the new mobility van service are encouraged to stay informed about route announcements. Those interested can contact the dispatch at 867-877-1215 for more information.